It’s always interesting to see those poised, good-natured dogs handling tasks with such calm demeanor in movies or TV shows. They seem to be always patient and never out of control. One of those breeds that comes to mind is unquestionably the Golden Retriever.
Golden Retrievers have a reputation for being friendly, obedient, and easygoing. But, did you know Golden Retrievers were initially bred as gun dogs, to retrieve shot waterfowl during hunting and shooting parties? Talk about impressive, these four-legged beauties were trained and trusted to handle delicate and crucial tasks such as retrieving game undamaged. Well, that’s something you don’t stumble upon every day.
But let’s get back to the fun part, whether or not they are as calm as they seem. Despite their energetic and playful side, many consider Golden Retrievers as calm dogs predominantly because of their patient temperament and adaptable attitude. Although this doesn’t entirely mean Golden Retrievers are couch potatoes, they do have a certain calm aura, setting them apart from many other breeds.
However, it’s important to remember that every single dog, like humans, comes with its unique personality. So, while most Golden Retrievers show a composed temperament, some may be a tad more energetic or even anxious.
A Golden Retriever’s calm temperament is usually evident as they mature. As puppies, they can be active and boisterous, constantly on the move, exploring their surrounding. Hence, it’s essential not to mistake this natural curiosity and energy for hyperactivity or lack of calmness. It may take some time (usually until they’re around three years old) before they relax and channel their signature tranquility.
Now, let’s shed some light on the factors that could influence a Golden Retriever’s tranquility.
Some Golden Retrievers can come across as less calm due to two primary reasons: lack of proper training and insufficient exercise. These intelligent dogs have an inherent need to work and exercise, and when these requirements aren’t met, they can become restless or act out.
Inadequate mental stimulation can also cause a Golden Retriever to appear less calm. These are intelligent dogs that need regular mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Anything from learning new tricks, obedience training, to interactive toys can keep your Golden Retriever’s mind sharp, thereby promoting a more relaxed demeanor.
Does this mean that getting a Golden Retriever guarantees a calm, easy-going pet? Well, not necessarily. While Golden Retrievers generally have a calm temperament, they still need the right upbringing to maintain this calmness.
So, are you thinking of bringing a Golden Retriever into your home and wondering how to cultivate their calmness? Great! Let’s dive into some useful advice.
1. Provide plenty of exercise. Golden Retrievers are active and fun-loving animals; they require daily exercise to keep their mind and body healthy. Regular walks, play-time, or fetching games, can help them burn off excess energy and promote calmness.
2. Train early and consistently. Start training your Golden Retriever at an early stage. This will mould their character and habits, ensuring that they grow into well-mannered, calm adults.
3. Balance their diet. A Golden Retriever’s diet can affect their behavior. Balanced, nutritious meals keep them in good health, which can contribute to their overall calmness.
4. Show love and care. Just like humans, dogs respond to love and affection. Showing your Golden Retriever plenty of love and care will help them feel secure, reducing anxiety levels and encouraging a calmer demeanor.
In conclusion, yes, Golden Retrievers are generally calm dogs. But, remember that calmness doesn’t come without the right environment, care, and training. Just as you would invest time and effort into raising a child, you’ll find that doing the same for your Golden Retriever will give you a loyal, loving, and calm companion to cherish for years to come.
